Got Yoga?

In the fight against osteoporosis and osteopenia, milk has a new ally. A recent pilot study in the journal Topics in Geriatric Rehabilitation followed individuals (average age: 68) who participated in yoga for 10 to 12 minutes each day over the course of two years. The result: significant improvement in bone mineral density. With more than 200 million people suffering from osteoporosis and osteopenia around the world, the study presents relevant news for a substantial number of individuals.

In an article in the Seattle Post-Intelligencer, Dr. Loren Fishman, assistant clinical professor at the Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons and author of the study, said yoga is a safer alternative than bisphosphonates such as Fosamax and other drugs that increase bone mass. While the drugs may reduce the risk of fracture in patients with osteoporosis they can also have serious side effects.

Fishman’s research doesn’t mean that people who are at risk for osteoporosis should whip out their best head or shoulder stand, though. Weight-bearing positions can achieve the opposite effect, putting pressure on bones in an unsafe way. Handstands, right-angle handstands and dog poses are best for the osteoporosis-prone because they avoid placing weight on fragile neck vertebrae.

Who knew the fight against osteoporosis would include a few downward dogs and cobras? Special props to anyone who can pull off these positions while also drinking a frothy glass of milk.